The correspondence referenced by the Deputy was sent by email to the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science on the 31st January 2023. An acknowledgement receipt was issued by the office of the Minister on the 31st January.
The Department of Further and Higher Education Research, Innovation and Science Customer Service Promise (link here gov.ie - Our customer service promise (www.gov.ie) stipulates that:
"When you write to us, we will:
- aim to acknowledge your communication within five working days of getting it
- provide a final reply within 20 working days
- explain any delay to you before the 20-day period is up
- provide you with full contact details and a reference number, where relevant"
A response will be provided to the correspondence by the 1st March 2023 in line with our customer service promise.